Another Thursday night brings another NFL clash to help usher in the weekend.
Our matchup this week is the Steelers at Vikings, a battle between two teams just outside their respective conference’s current playoff picture. BetMGM’s NFL betting odds show the Vikings as short 3.5 point favorites in this contest.
Here’s a look at some of the best bets for when these two historic franchises meet in Minneapolis this Thursday. I’ll include a bet for those who believe the Steelers will win and for bettors picking the Vikings. I’ll also have a bet that I think all bettors should take, regardless of who you think will win.
Steelers Win by 1-6 Points (+360)
If you, like me, believe that the Pittsburgh Steelers will win the game, this is an excellent alternative bet to consider.
The Steeler’s last four wins were all by under six points, including a win against the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens in which they were underdogs. They’ve had two wins by more than six points; those were by seven and eight.
Not only have they not had a blowout victory, but all of their wins have also been by a single possession. I’m expecting this game to be close.
Vikings Win and Over 40.5 (+150)
This alternative bet is an excellent one to consider for those who think the Minnesota Vikings will win.
Nine of the Vikings’ 12 games have gone over 46.5 points. In four of their five wins, the total points have been 47 or greater. In the other win, it was 36.
They’ve averaged 28.8 points per game in victories, 3.1 points above their season average. That’s almost three-quarters of this 40.5 over/under on their own.
There are options for any total between 30.5 and 60.5, so taking a higher number like 46.5 is available too for a bigger payout, but I felt more comfortable with 40.5.
Both Teams Score 20 or More Points (+125)
This would be a tremendous alternative bet based solely on both teams’ averages this year.
The Steelers average 20.3 per game and allow 23.8 per game. The Vikings average 25.7 points per game and allow 25.4 per game.
The Steelers have scored at least 20 points in three of their past five games. They’ve also allowed at least 20 in three of their past five. The Vikings have scored and allowed at least 20 points in each of their past five games.
Only four of Minnesota’s games didn’t see both teams reach 20 points this year.
There may be concerns about the Vikings’ offense if they’re playing without Dalvin Cook and Adam Thielen, but Kirk Cousins and Justin Jefferson put up 27 points after Thielen was injured in the first quarter last week.
Steelers at Vikings: Best Bets
This Steelers at Vikings game should be an exciting matchup that may ultimately be the difference between a playoff berth and an early vacation for both teams.
To explore betting options for this game and all of Week 14, make sure to check out BetMGM, the best online sportsbook. Sign up for an account today and get a risk-free first bet of up to $1,000.
